Oshawa facility's future up for grabs

July 2, 2007

By ROSALYN SOLOMON

DURHAM -- The Oshawa Civic Auditorium Complex was home to hockey teams and concerts in the past, but who it will host -- if anyone at all -- in the future is up for review.

City council has heard from organizations all around Durham that are interested in the facility, which closed last November after 43 years because the General Motors Centre opened Nov. 3.

Before it was closed, council and staff started the Request for Expression of Interest process. The Durham Indoor Soccer Centre, the Oshawa Kicks Soccer Club and the Durham Women's Lacrosse League all expressed interest.

In a report to council last week, staff recommended demolishing the facility because its size would make it expensive to maintain.

"The costs that are required aren't immediate, but will be in the next 5 to 10 years, it's limited as it sits right now in its capacity to operate as financially viable," said Mary Creighton, director of recreation and culture services.

Council asked that staff prepare another report looking at all the options but because council goes on recess July 16, Creighton said it likely won't be ready until the fall.

Creighton said members of the public will also have a chance to have their say when the report is completed.